Memory care communities provide specialized services for seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of dementia. Making the decision to move a loved one to memory care can be difficult, often leaving family caregivers with guilt. The good news is that memory care communities can be a place where people with Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive impairment find purpose and meaning, giving families rest and peace of mind.
Explore innovative memory care services in downtown Seattle, WA, and see how the memory care community at Murano Senior Living [1] may just be the partner in care you and your family have been waiting for.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition affecting approximately 5.7 million people in the United States. It is not a normal part of aging and it worsens over time. As the third leading cause of death in America, after heart disease and cancer, Alzheimer’s disease affects the entire family as loved ones slowly become unable to care for themselves over time.
While every person with Alzheimer’s disease is different, there are generally 7 stages of the disease [2]. In the early stages of the disease, it is virtually unrecognizable with only mild signs of memory impairment becoming evident in the third stage of the condition.
Often used interchangeably with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is actually a form of dementia and there are several other forms of dementia that share similar symptoms to Alzheimer’s. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the top ten signs of Alzheimer’s [3] are
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusing with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgment
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Change in mood or personality
Memory Care for Seniors with Dementia
Memory care is a certain type of long-term care that is designed to meet the unique needs of people living with Alzheimer’s disease or a related form of dementia. Many memory care communities are located within senior care communities that offer other types of care, including independent living and assisted living. Often, these types of communities will have a wing or floor dedicated to memory care.
Memory care communities typically have specialized services so that people with dementia can remain as independent as possible for as long as possible. With dementia-friendly menus, secured courtyards, circular floor plans, and more, memory care communities encourage residents to live meaningful and impactful lives, even as dementia progresses.
Memory care communities also have specially trained staff who are well-equipped to cope with the challenges that come with a dementia diagnosis. Additionally, the staff at these communities have regular training to stay current on the most up-to-date memory care methods.
Making the Move to Memory Care
When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or a related form of dementia, it can be devastating to the whole family. Many families care for their loved ones as long as possible at home. However, as the disease progresses full-time care becomes necessary and families start considering when to move to memory care [4].
Families do all they can to provide care for their loved one but because of the nature of the disease, finding a trusted partner in care often becomes necessary.
How do you know when it’s time to seek a partner in memory care? Here are a few signs that your family may be ready.
- You constantly worry about the safety of your loved one (and maybe even your own safety).
- You are exhausted and feel like your own health is suffering as a result of caregiving.
- Your loved one becomes neglectful of their financial obligations.
- Your loved one can no longer take care of their personal hygiene.
- You are concerned about your loved one wandering.
- Your loved one seems lonely and withdrawn.
- You have witnessed unexplained physical changes in your loved one.
- You want to have a partner in care and restore your relationship with your loved one.
Quality Memory Care in Downtown Seattle, Washington
Murano Senior Living [1] in downtown Seattle, WA offers high-quality memory care services. Seeking to become your trusted partner in care, Murano Senior Living memory care in Seattle offers unique and innovative care. Featuring a dedicated floor for memory care, residents in Murano Senior Living’s memory care enjoy specialized dining services, a unique activity calendar, gardening opportunities, and more.
“After years of research and visiting over a dozen facilities, my husband and I moved to Murano Senior Living [1]. We just love it here! This gorgeous facility offers an innovative model for senior care, from independent living through assisted living services and memory care. Management is highly responsive and staff is very caring. State-of-the-art health and fitness opportunities are tailored to individuals needs. The food is truly amazing, both delicious and nutritious. Our days are filled with fun and creative activities. Highly recommended!” – Patty, a Murano Senior Living resident
Murano Senior Living takes a holistic and comprehensive approach to care. Opal, our signature memory care program has seven pillars of wellness that ensure we are meeting the needs of the whole person.
At Murano Senior Living [1], we know that you are doing everything you can to care for your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. We also know that dementia brings inevitable and often overwhelming stress on family relationships. Our specialized memory care community is all about service, getting to know your family, and your loved one. Giving meaning and renewed purpose to each day, you may find that your family relationships are restored and balanced.
Learn more about Murano Senior Living’s independent living, assisted living, and memory care [5] in downtown Seattle by visiting www.muranoseniorliving.com [6].